Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has officially declared his intention to seek re-election in the 2026 governorship race, saying he was moved by the overwhelming support he has received from across the state.
The governor made the announcement on Monday, August 4, during a meeting with the All Progressives Congress (APC) Central Working Committee at the party’s secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.
He said encouragement from traditional rulers, civil servants, market women, youth groups, artisans, drivers’ unions, and political figures across party lines had influenced his decision to run again.
“I will also use this opportunity to inform you that I have listened to you and I am formally informing the party that I will run for second term.
“So, I plead for your support and prayers and by His grace, I will continue to respect you,” Oyebanji said.
He thanked party leaders and members for standing by his administration and praised their unity and resilience.
“Let me start by appreciating you, thank you for your support, endurance and for holding the party, on behalf of myself, the Deputy Governor and other political office holders.
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“We are extremely grateful for your prayers and understanding and I also thank you on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the endorsement,” he said.
Addressing speculation over internal tensions within the APC in Ekiti, Oyebanji insisted the party was united.
“Let me also assure you that there is no crisis in the leadership of APC,” he said. “Our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership.”
The governor reaffirmed his loyalty to the former governors, calling them elder statesmen and pillars of the APC in the state. He said his administration would continue to honour them.
He also urged residents to prepare for the 2026 polls by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and he thanked President Tinubu for supporting Ekiti’s development through favourable economic policies.
Oyebanji further reiterated his commitment to a level playing field within the APC, saying the party’s ticket would be open to all interested aspirants.